With town meeting just around the corner, I would ask voters to bear in mind those Vermonters in the military, Merchant Marine, or homebound who are able to exercise their franchise only by absentee ballot. The introduction of items not included in the absentee ballot denies those Vermonters their opportunity to participate in their governance and makes a mockery of what is purportedly the purest expression of democracy.

In order to protect the rights of those who are not present to protect themselves, please consider moving to adjourn the meeting following completion of items on the absentee ballot. If that isn’t possible, please consider offering amendments to ensure all items introduced from the floor are accurately described through addition of a statement such as, “By a simple majority of those residents afforded the opportunity to physically attend town meeting.”